New health future

July 10, 2018

MACEDON Ranges Health and aged-care provider Benetas announced their official amalgamation on Thursday.

The amalgamation sees Benetas take over all services previously provided by Macedon Ranges Health as part of a $60 million investment to upgrade, expand and redevelop the facilities and services that Macedon Ranges Health provides.

That $60 million will fund the rebuild of the Gisborne Oaks aged care facility, the development of a residential retirement village, the growth of Macedon Ranges Health’s community and home care services and a $1.2 million initial investment in Macedon Ranges Health’s existing facilities and infrastructure.

The two organisations have been working towards amalgamating for over seven months, with it becoming official on July 1.

As part of the amalgamation, former Macedon Ranges Health CEO Don Tidbury has joined Benetas at General Manager Primary Care.

Mr Tidbury said the community was overwhelmingly in favour of the amalgamation.

“In November 2017, the Macedon Ranges community, through Macedon Ranges Health members, voted 83 per cent in support of the amalgamation,” he said.

“Benetas will retain Macedon Ranges Health brand, logo and heritage in the community as it grows Macedon Ranges Health’s community, home and residential aged care services.”

While Benetas is an aged care provider, Mr Tidbury said there wouldn’t be less focus placed on primary care or other services.

“The number of people over 80 in the Macedon Ranges is expected to double over the next 10 years. Benetas and Macedon Ranges Health are industry leading providers in aged care but both providers also provide care to other members of the community and Benetas is committed to expanding Macedon Ranges Health services across all parts of the community,” he added.

Benetas CEO Sandra Hills said Benetas and Macedon Ranges Health are “truly united in their strong community values”.

“Our shared vision has never been clearer to deliver high quality, for purpose services for all in the region including those most vulnerable in our community, while investing in services to meet growing needs and creating local employment opportunities,” she said.